Evolution Industries January 2011

OSHA’s standard ensures that information about chemical hazards and associated protective measures is disseminated. It requires chemical manufacturers to provide specific information to its buyers. It also requires the end users to educate its employees on it’s safe use and handling.

You (the end user) have the right to know which chemicals may pose physical or health hazards in the workplace! You also have the right to know how to protect yourself from these hazards.

Physical hazard: flammable, combustible, caustic, explosive, combustible Health hazard: skin irritation, eye irritation, lung disease, cancer, headaches

Evolution Industries is responsible for developing a program that communicates the following:  Which hazards are found in our workplace  How they are identified and labeled  Where to find information about them  What you can do to protect yourself

A comprehensive list of all chemicals (liquids, solids, gases, vapors, mists, etc) is maintained in the Safety Manual. This list is updated annually or when a new hazardous chemical is incorporated into the workplace.

Each chemical on the list will have a corresponding MSDS sheet. An MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) is provided by the manufacturer of the chemical. Each of these sheets are kept alphabetically in an MSDS book with a bright yellow cover for easy reference.

The first time we receive a shipment of any hazardous chemical, we receive an MSDS sheet along with it. This identifies the substance as hazardous and allows us to properly educate and protect our employees.

Once a hazardous substance introduced into our environment, it must be clearly labeled. Never use a chemical from unmarked containers.

You may see a shipping label on a cardboard box that helps to identify a hazardous substance:

The container itself will also have an indicator of types of hazards:

If the end user decides to place a hazardous chemical in more convenient container, it must also be labeled:

The numbers on the labels correspond with this table

Each substance on our master list has a corresponding MSDS sheet in the yellow binder. The MSDS sheet has in-depth information including chemical names, PPE requirements, storage, disposal, and spill procedures.

The identity used on the label. Chemical and common names. Physical and chemical characteristics of the hazardous ingredients (e.g., flashpoint, appearance and odor). Physical hazards (e.g., combustible, unstable). Health hazards (e.g., corrosive) plus signs and symptoms of exposure and medical conditions aggravated by exposure. Primary route(s) of entry (e.g., inhalation). Air exposure limit. Carcinogenicity. Precautions for safe handling and use (e.g., storage, waste disposal). Control measures (e.g., personal protection). Emergency and first aid procedure Date of preparation of MSDS. Name/address/phone number of responsible party. MSDS Categories

There are two MSDS books for easy reference. One will always be located in the Administrative Manager’s office. The other will be in a central location in the fabrication area. It is a requirement that you know where to find an MSDS book!

You now have an understanding of where to find information at Evolution regarding hazardous materials. What do we expect you to do with this information?

In general: Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) that is in good condition when dealing with these materials Know where your MSDS book is located. Always wash your hands after using gloves Know where First Aid materials and the eye wash station are located in your work area Know who to contact in case of emergency or spill

Flammable materials: Do not perform “hot work” (welding, grinding metal) within 50 ft. of flammable materials Do not smoke near flammable materials Do not use flammable materials to clean tables, floors, or your hands Do not use chemicals from unlabeled containers

Gases Keep sources of ignition away from the cylinders Oxidizers and flammable gases should be stored in areas separated by at least 20 feet Avoid dropping or hitting compressed gas cylinders